rvc annual report 2012
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Rock Valley College's annual report to the communityTRANSCRIPT
REPORT to the COMMUNITYROCK VALLEY COLLEGE & FOUNDATION
Daniela G., pre-med student
You must be the change you wish to see in the world.
—Mahatma Gandhi
Each year as we develop our Annual Report to the Community at Rock Valley
College, we seek out our greatest stories of the year and combine them with a vision of our future. In doing so a
theme usually appears to us.
This year’s theme came easily: Faculty of the Year Dr. Michael Youngblood professed at our commencement
ceremony that “community colleges change lives.” Then one of our students won the Paul Simon Essay Contest
for the state of Illinois writing on the theme, “How My Community College Has Changed My Life.” You will enjoy
reading more about these two perspectives within these pages.
With over 30 years in community college education, I have personally seen hundreds of students whose lives
were, in fact, changed because of their community college experience. Our students come to us for a variety of
reasons: credit courses to transfer to a four-year institution; training for a steady, well-paying job or completing
a GED (General Education Development) when a high school diploma was not achieved, and these are only
a few. I never cease to be touched by the story of a student who came to us unsure and afraid and left us
successful and confident because we provide both challenge to excel and support to succeed.
I am proud to be a part of Rock Valley College and its mission to change lives in our community. As an institution
we are nimble and prepared to address needs within our region. Our community counts on us to meet students’
needs while also addressing the economic vitality of our area as a whole.
We are grateful to have many partners in our community who work with us to identify and execute solutions.
Whether serving or leading, at Rock Valley College we are dedicated to being a critical part of important change.
It’s our mission and it’s our privilege.
— Dr. Jack Becherer
A message from the
president
ROCK VALLEY COLLEGE & FOUNDATION
4 REPORT to the COMMUNITY
I was born and raised in Moline, Illinois.
My parents were hard workers and great
providers, but neither of them attended
college. They came from the rural south, where
emphasis was placed on working on the farm,
not going to college. As a result, college had
never been part of my family’s experience.
To provide for our family, my dad worked in the
same shop for 32 years and my mom worked
at various retail stores. I was pretty much
expected to follow that same path.
It wasn’t until my junior or senior year of
high school that I really started to think
about my future. Did I really want to work in
manufacturing? I wondered what other career
opportunities were available to me.
During my senior year, I decided to attend Black
Hawk College, my local community college.
At the risk of sounding overly dramatic, that
experience changed my life. At Black Hawk,
three things happened: first, I was introduced
to topics and ideas that I had never known
existed before. These things challenged the
ways that I viewed the world. Second, I took my
first economics class. Third, I learned that I was
capable of doing college-level work.
I have been a professor at Rock Valley College
for the past 22 years. Over that time,
I have tried to “give something back” because
my community college experience laid the
foundation for the life I have today. Community
college has also played a huge role in the lives
of my family. My wife graduated from RVC
before attending Rockford College.
My oldest son, Dane, graduated from RVC
before attending Northern Illinois University.
He is currently employed by RVC. My youngest
son, Addison, attended RVC before transferring
to the University of Illinois. He returned this
past summer to work for the RVC theater
department.
As an RVC faculty member, I have always
tried my best to recreate my community
college experience for my students. Like me,
many of my students are first-generation
college students. They are struggling with the
challenges of learning to “become” college
students. I believe it is my role as a professor to
help them discover their academic potential.
In all of these efforts, my guiding principle
has always been “community colleges can
change lives.”
In April 2012, Dr. Michael Youngblood, RVC Professor of Economics, was honored as the 24th
recipient of the Faculty of the Year award at Rock Valley College. Before obtaining his bachelor’s
degree, master’s degree, and doctorate from Northern Illinois University, Dr. Youngblood began his
educational journey as a community college student. Below, Mike talks about his community college
experience and how he has tried to replicate that experience for his students at Rock Valley College.
Community college
changes people’s lives
“I believe it is my role
as a professor to help
them discover their
academic potential.”
— Dr. Michael Youngblood, RVC Economics Professor
“Mom, did you make any friends today?” my
9-year-old daughter asked after my first day at
Rock Valley College. “No, Sweetie, I did not.”
My 12-year-old son had a more astute
observation: “Aren’t you embarrassed to
be there? I mean, you are older than the
other students.” I was embarrassed and
quite self-conscious — for about 15 minutes.
That embarrassment quickly made way for
enthusiasm and the realization that I was
finally taking the next step toward bettering
my life.
“Going back to school” was merely an idea I
had been mulling over for months, and when
it was time to take action, Rock Valley College
stood out as a great fit for me. The reasonable
cost and location of the main campus meant
that I could attend classes without adversely
affecting my family’s finances. Their helpful
staff guided me through the sign-up process,
and before I knew it, “going back to school”
had made the leap from idea to reality.
My family noticed a change within weeks;
I was happier, more organized, more focused.
My workload forced me to manage my time
more wisely and work more efficiently.
My intellectual frustrations disappeared, as
I was challenged by my professors and the
class material. I felt confident, ready to take
on new academic challenges and fill in my
knowledge gaps.
However, the changes I’ve experienced
run deeper than that. There is a renewed
sense of curiosity and a desire to learn in
our house — not only for me, but also my
children and husband. They see the value
of a quality education; they see me study, of
course, but they also share my excitement to
learn more material, to open more doors. By
demonstrating that a life filled with education
is a rich life, I set the stage for my children to
succeed in their chosen paths.
Without the excellent professors and great
classes at Rock Valley College, it would have
been difficult to pass these lessons on to my
children. “Education is important” would have
been just words, instead of a way of life they
now see. The example I set sends a stronger
message: pursue education with passion, and
happiness will follow.
Rock Valley College has made it possible
for me to reach my new potential and set
higher goals for my life. It’s easy to see that
I’m happier — which has a very nice trickle-
down effect for my family — but going back to
school has enriched my entire outlook on life.
Anything is possible with an education;
I felt that from my first day at Rock Valley
College and still believe it today.
My community college has most certainly
changed my life for the better, and I even made
a few friends.
The following is the republished essay for Rock Valley College student Rebecca Hines. Rebecca entered and won the Paul
Simon Student Essay contest at RVC, an annual contest that asks students in 500 words or less to address the theme of
“How My Community College Has Changed My Life.” After her essay was chosen as the winner at RVC, she was entered
into the statewide competition where she went on to win top honors from among 24 students representing community
colleges across the state. Rebecca is the first RVC student to claim the top prize in the state competition since the
competition was created in 1990.
“My family noticed a
change within weeks;
I was happier,
more organized,
more focused.”
— Rebecca Hines, RVC student
How My Community College Has
Changed My Life
ROCK VALLEY COLLEGE & FOUNDATION
6 REPORT to the COMMUNITY
Two years ago, I had no hope for the future.
I thought I would be a drug addict or criminal
for the rest of my life. Now, I feel like the world
is in the palm of my hands and my life is what
I make it.
I was a multiple drug addict, getting out of
jail, and homeless. When I was released, I
chose to go to the Rockford Rescue Mission
because I was ready to change my life. My
education instructor at the Mission, Ms. Pamela
Thompson, recognized my interest in getting
into college. She helped me begin the process
of getting started at the LOC by getting
me online and assisting me with enrolling,
completing my FAFSA, driving me to the
campus, and registering for classes.
The biggest challenge for me was coming
from the lifestyle that I knew. I needed to learn
how to develop discipline, prioritize, become
organized, juggle my schedule, and follow
through on commitments. I had to create a
healthy support system, and start listening to
and taking advice from mentors, counselors,
friends, and acquaintances who were going
through similar experiences.
I am now in a halfway house and share an
apartment with one other guy. Now that
I have been working on some of those
skills I mentioned like being organized and
managing my schedule, I am also looking
for a job while attending RVC. Things are
progressing.
I have had a good experience at the LOC.
It is a smaller campus which makes it a more
personal, “tight knit” environment. As a result
of this, I found it easier to have more personal
relationships and talk to various classmates
and teachers. The campus kind of helps you
crawl before you can walk, which helps prepare
you for the transition to the main campus.
I’m working toward my associate of arts and
plan on eventually obtaining a master’s degree
in either social work or science. I would like
to work for a non-profit organization that
helps people, or find a position pertaining to
environmental science. In my opinion, one of
the most important things in life is to find what
you have a passion for and make a career out
of it. An education can help to achieve that.
RVC is a great way to get started on your
education because it’s more affordable than
other colleges and universities. If you invest
the time now, you will have the rest of your life
to enjoy the benefits.
Opportunity for
changeIn our 2010 annual report to the community, we introduced you to the Learning and Opportunity Center (LOC), Rock Valley College’s satellite location in
downtown Rockford. Since opening its doors in the fall of 2010, nearly 800 students have taken classes at the LOC. Over 85% of those students have been
first-generation college students.
By offering a flexible schedule of classes at a convenient location for people who live or work in the downtown area, the LOC has allowed Rock Valley
College to provide countless life-changing opportunities for people in our community.
Joshua Archer is just one of many success stories written so far at the LOC.
“Now, I feel like the
world is in the
palm of my hands
and my life is what
I make it.”
— Joshua Archer, RVC student
ROCK VALLEY COLLEGE & FOUNDATION
REPORT to the COMMUNITY 7
RVC Mission StatementRock Valley College is an educational leader in providing quality, accessible, lifelong learning opportunities, cultural enrichment, and support for economic and technological development.
“Since joining Woodward, I have felt very
welcomed here. All of my coworkers and
supervisors are helpful with any issues I have
and are happy to help. I’ve been pleased with
the RVC faculty and their willingness to help me
achieve my best. The classes can sometimes be
challenging, but the instructors are definitely
there to help me through it.”
— Sara McKee, 2012 GEM student
ROCK VALLEY COLLEGE & FOUNDATION
REPORT to the COMMUNITY 9
Partnerships. Synergy. Collaboration.Regardless of the words, the definition is clear: Rock Valley
College works closely with many partners in our region to
increase educational aspiration and meet the growing demands
of our business community.
Through partnerships in education RVC is continuing to
provide opportunities for qualified high school students to
complete their final two years as students on our campus and
simultaneously complete their associate’s degrees. Our Running
Start programs allow graduates to transfer into a variety of
programs, including engineering, mathematics, and science.
In a region where skilled workers are always in high demand,
business partnerships provide opportunities for students to train
and receive certification in areas such as manufacturing so they
can immediately apply and interview for full-time employment.
Successful programs such as Golden Eagles Manufacturing (GEM)
are the groundwork to meet other training needs throughout
the region. GEM is a collaboration between Rock Valley College
and Woodward that offers students paid, job-related experience
while they are earning a Manufacturing Engineering Technology
degree from RVC (See photo on opposite page).
As the local aerospace industry continues to grow and demand
a skilled workforce, the need for developing engineering talent
has become an even greater priority. Rock Valley College is a key
component in the collaboration among businesses and education
to make certain the region can support these demands.
The educational skills gap is a national issue. The collaboration
between K-12 districts and Rock Valley College provides insight
and support to help high school teachers develop curricula to
best prepare graduates for college-level work.
We also assist local high schools with career-specific curricula
for students who have a particular subject or job interest
beyond high school. For those students interested in health
care, manufacturing, or automotive technology, for example,
there are opportunities to begin targeted classes while still in
high school.
Relationships with local religious and human services
organizations have proven critical to the success of the Learning
and Opportunity Center (LOC) in downtown Rockford. These
organizations identify and offer support to potential students
at the LOC and are often the driving force for students to take
the first step into the Center. Careful case management and
personal attention give students at the LOC a chance to realize
their strengths and challenges and accept each victory — no
matter how small — as a step toward a larger educational goal.
We are very proud of how we not only lead, but answer the
call to meet the needs of our region. Community colleges
must be flexible and possess the ability to lead and serve in an
ever-changing landscape.
We are grateful to our many partners who help us to improve
the education and economic vitality of our community, whether
it involves careers in healthcare, teaching, or manufacturing.
These successful partnerships clearly demonstrate the power of
collaboration.
ROCK VALLEY COLLEGE & FOUNDATION
10 REPORT to the COMMUNITY Partnerships (continued)
Bridge to HealthcareRock Valley College Adult Education has partnered with
Northwest Illinois Healthcare Collaborative to offer
Bridge to Healthcare, an innovative program designed
for members of the community to gain the basic skills to
obtain their GED (General Education Development), as
well as the skills necessary to pursue further training in
the healthcare field. Start-up costs for this program were
provided by the Northwest Illinois Healthcare Collaborative
and the Rock Valley College Foundation.
Grow Your Own graduates first class of teachersIn 2006, Rock Valley College signed on to a state-wide
grant program, Grow Your Own Illinois, as the community
college partner in the Rockford consortium. The Grow
Your Own (GYO) idea is simple — it takes a community
effort to recruit, support, retain, and graduate teacher
candidates who are from the community, who represent
the community, and who plan and expect to teach
in schools located in their own neighborhoods. GYO
is literally charged with “growing our own” future
educators.
National Louis University (NLU) is the senior educational
partner that offers upper-division courses in Rockford
(on RVC’s campus) leading to a bachelor’s degree in
elementary education with an endorsement in middle
school science. In April 2012 the first cohort of five
GYO teacher candidates completed student teaching
and graduated from NLU. Kevin Bruce, Starla Copeland,
Tomas Garza, Colleen Pete, and Elizabeth Wilson are the
inaugural class of GYO 2012.
All five planned to seek teaching jobs with Rockford
Public School District #205.
Joining together propagates
change
Left to right: Joan Fedota (NLU Asst. Dean of the National College of Education), Sherri Bressman, (NLU Dept Chair of
Elementary and Middle Level Education) , Elizabeth Wilson (GYO Teacher Candidate), Colleen Pete (GYO Teacher Candidate),
Starla Copeland (GYO Teacher Candidate), Georgiann McKenna (NLU Cohort Instructor), Deb O’Connor (NLU Faculty), and
Kevin Bruce (GYO Teacher Candidate).
ROCK VALLEY COLLEGE & FOUNDATION
REPORT to the COMMUNITY 11
“What drew me to the GEM program was the chance to go to school and get valuable, on-the-job
experience that goes hand-in-hand with the things that I learn at school. This is exactly what I’m
getting out of it. It’s really neat when I come to work, and can say, ‘Hey, that’s what I was just learning
at school,’ and vice versa. The opportunity to learn at work as well as at school is really huge.
This leaves the GEM students prepared to jump into a working environment after school is over.”
— Kendal Linscheid, 2012 GEM student
Students excel through GEM program Since 2007, Rock Valley College and Woodward have
collaborated on the Golden Eagles Manufacturing
(GEM) program. GEM offers students paid, job-
related experience while they earn a Manufacturing
Engineering Technology degree from RVC.
Running Start program expandsRunning Start is a program that allows select, qualified
students from area high schools to earn both their
high school diploma and associate of arts degree
concurrently by attending Rock Valley College full-time
during their junior and senior years of high school.
In the fall of 2011, the program, which was already open
to qualified students from Belvidere and Belvidere
North high schools, expanded to include students from
Winnebago, Byron, and Harlem high schools.
Sara McKee,
GEM student at Woodward
Awards & recognitions
ROCK VALLEY COLLEGE & FOUNDATION
12 REPORT to the COMMUNITY
RVC wins Governor’s Sustainability AwardRock Valley College was honored for best practices at the
2011 Illinois Governor’s Sustainability Awards luncheon
in Champaign on October 27, 2011. RVC was recognized
for the Physical Education Center (PEC) renovation
project that was completed in late 2009. Through the
renovation, the PEC was the first LEED (Leadership in
Energy and Environmental Design) Gold Certified facility
in Winnebago County, and the first Illinois community
college facility to achieve Gold Level Certification.
Mass Communication students win awards, films screened at film festivalsRVC Mass Communication students Tom Doherty, Jayson
Phommavongsa, Catt Garcia, Sara Garcia, Kyle Owen, and
David Dawson all won awards at the Mosaic Film Festival
in August 2011. Doherty and Phommavongsa also had
their film screened at the Beloit International Film Festival.
Students Jake Skiba, Mike Dean, and Eric Smigiel all had
films screened at the Illinois International Film Festival.
Model UN team takes home awardsThe Rock Valley College Model United Nations Team
received awards in October 2011 for Outstanding
Delegation and for Outstanding Position Papers.
Left to right: Assistant Director of PRI (Prairie Research Institute) Gary Miller, RVC Vice President of Administrative Services
Sam Overton, RVC Director of Business Services Jacki Minnihan, ISTC (Illinois Sustainable Technology Center) Director
Manohar Kulkarni
ROCK VALLEY COLLEGE & FOUNDATION
REPORT to the COMMUNITY 13
RVC athletics wins two national titles; nine athletes earn All-American honorsThe women’s tennis and women’s basketball teams both
brought home NJCAA (National Junior College Athletic
Association) national championships for RVC during
the last year, while the RVC volleyball team placed third
nationally for the second straight season. Volleyball players
Kristen Kotch and Morgan Knoll, women’s tennis players
Nicole Beck, Katy Kurilla, McKenzie McCray, Alice Swanson,
and Brianna Todaro, and women’s basketball players
Marion Thompson and Erin Ryczek were all named
NJCAA All-Americans.
Six RVC athletes honored for success in the classroomRVC athletes Ryan Blume (baseball), Elliot Day (golf ),
Zachary Kloster (golf ), Lindsay Lengjak (women’s
basketball), Emily Ollman (women’s basketball), and
Kelsey Scarpetta (softball) all earned awards for
academic excellence from the NJCAA.
RVC student’s photo chosen for magazine coverMeico Gowan, a photography student at RVC, had the
honor of his photo being selected for the cover of the
January 2012 issue of Photographer’s Forum Magazine.
Prestigious anthology publishes RVC student’s poemRVC student Rachel Talan had her poem, Clumsy, selected
from among 950 entries for publication in the 2011 edition
of Nota Bene, Phi Theta Kappa’s honors anthology. Nota Bene,
which is distributed internationally, showcases outstanding
writing by community college students and emphasizes the
opportunities for excellence found at community colleges.
2011-2012 RVC women’s basketball national
champions
Jessica Gamble, RVC women’s basketball
RVC student Meico Gowan’s
photo appeared on the cover of
“Photographer’s Forum” magazine
ROCK VALLEY COLLEGE & FOUNDATION
14 REPORT to the COMMUNITY Awards amd recognitions (continued)
RVC student wins national Cisco Networking Academy NetRiders competitionRock Valley College student Casey Schoonover won
the Cisco Networking Academy NetRiders competition,
a competition that started with 709 participants
representing 39 states and six provinces in the U.S.
and Canada. Schoonover advanced through three
competitive rounds and won first place on December 2,
2011 in a final round that included 44 competitors.
RVC and TechWorks receive NIMS accreditationThe National Institute for Metalworking Skills, Inc.
(NIMS) is a nonprofit organization that promotes skilled
workforce development in the metalworking industry.
NIMS has developed skill standards to support quality
in training programs that prepare metalworkers. The
purpose of NIMS national accreditation is to improve
the quality of training programs, as part of the national
endeavor to build and maintain a globally competitive
workforce while providing career opportunities to
employees.
Saldana named 2012 Coca-Cola Community College Academic Team Silver Scholar Janet Saldana was named a 2012 Coca-Cola Community
College Academic Team Silver Scholar and received a
$1,250 scholarship, as well as recognition in the USA
Today newspaper. In the fall of 2012, Janet started her
junior year studying biochemistry at Duke University.
Two RVC Running Start students named to Phi Theta Kappa All-Illinois Academic TeamRVC Running Start students Amy Kuhlen and
Janet Saldana were named to Phi Theta Kappa All-Illinois
Academic Team. Nominations are based on outstanding
academic performance and service to the college and
community.
Casey Schoonover won first
place among 709 participants
in the Cisco Networking
Academy NetRiders competition.
Coca-Cola Community College Academic Team Silver Scholar
Janet Saldana
Year in reviewRare art exhibit draws attentionFor several weeks in January and February 2012, Rock Valley
College presented a collection of early Chinese ceramics on
display in the Educational Resource Center. The ceramic objects
in this rare exhibition were from the Neolithic period, Han,
Tang, Song, Jin, and Liao Dynasties. This is one of many examples
of Rock Valley College making a commitment to enhance and
complement the learning experience for our students, while also
providing a wonderful educational opportunity for the community.
Record number of graduates
For the second consecutive year RVC graduated a record
number of students. This year’s 1,235 graduates surpassed last
year’s record-setting mark of 1,100. Faculty of the Year award
winner Dr. Michael Youngblood and student speaker Kendall
Ferguson addressed the graduates before a capacity crowd in
the Physical Education Center on May 18, 2012.
Flamenco A3 In June 2012, Rock Valley
College was once again
proud to provide an enriching
cultural and educational
experience for our students
and the community. Flamenco
is known around the world
for its passion, strength, and
elegance, while remaining
open to the new trends that
reflect the art form’s evolving
nature.
Thanks to the support of the
RVC Liberal Arts Division and
the RVC Foundation, three
internationally recognized
flamenco talents — Flamenco
A3 — performed a free,
standing-room-only concert in
the college’s Performing Arts
Room. The group also hosted
a Sevillanas dance workshop
through RVC’s Community
Education department. It was a unique and unforgettable
experience for all who participated, and an original first-class
show from three magnificent artists.
ROCK VALLEY COLLEGE & FOUNDATION
REPORT to the COMMUNITY 15
ROCK VALLEY COLLEGE & FOUNDATION
16 REPORT to the COMMUNITY
RVC now a premier and exclusive trainer for iPad, iPhone, iTouch applicationsIn May 2012, Rock Valley College was acknowledged
as a premier and exclusive Apple iOS training campus
for Illinois, Indiana, and Missouri. Starting in the spring
2013 semester, RVC students can learn how to develop,
distribute and market software applications for the Apple
iPad, iPhone, and iTouch devices.
Students who successfully complete the iOS development
course at Rock Valley College will be able to sell their
own apps on the Apple app store, while preparing for a
job market that is demanding more properly trained iOS
developers.
Chuck Konkol, RVC associate professor of computer and
information systems, who will be teaching and managing
the iOS Developer University Program, says he has already
been receiving calls from companies that want to enroll
an employee in the class or be a test subject for an app
developer-in-training.
RVC Electronic Engineering
Technology students (left
to right: Dennis Holliman,
Aimee Chastain, Adam
Wasson) create a
solar-powered go-kart.
Chuck Konkol, assoc. professor
of computer and information
systems is slated to instruct a
regionally-exclusive course in
creating computer apps.
RVC students showcase alternative energy projectsIn May 2012, Rock Valley College students in the Electronic Engineering
Technology, Manufacturing Engineering Technology, and Sustainable
Energy Systems programs reported on the innovative projects they
completed as part of the course work for their specific program.
Twenty-two students presented their capstone projects at local not-for-
profit organization Freedom Field Renewable Energy. Among the projects
students pursued were: a solar-powered go-kart; a backyard biomass
stove that could become a source of energy in Third World countries;
a small turbine that turns the current of a creek into electricity; designing
controls for wind turbines, and measuring the effectiveness of green roofs.
The projects provided students with real world, hands-on skills that are
desirable within the emerging alternative energy industry.
“These students are becoming system integrators, familiar with all the
renewable energy systems,” said Stephen Fleeman, an associate professor
for electronic engineering technology and sustainable energy systems at
RVC. “There are a lot of companies trying to get into these technologies.”
ROCK VALLEY COLLEGE & FOUNDATION
REPORT to the COMMUNITY 17
We are here for our students through every step of the
learning process.
We prepare them for the initial challenges of college
through Educational Planning Sessions and First Year
Experience programs. Our skilled advisors work with
students to establish educational goals and develop a
path for success at RVC.
Each year, thousands of students benefit from the
tutoring services offered in our Tutoring Center, Math Lab,
and Writing Center, places where the learning continues
outside of the classroom.
Students with disabilities can be assured they will
receive the support they need both in and out of the
classroom thanks to professional staff members in our
Disability Support Services department. International
and multi-cultural students can rely on assistance from
our Intercultural Student Services department to provide
academic support, personal coaching, and assistance with
utilizing other campus resources. The Office of Veterans
Services is available to help veterans who come to RVC
navigate the steps for getting started on their education.
These services and so many more help provide the
support our students need to succeed and change their
lives through education.
RVC student support services
“Writing is a process, and the
Writing Center at Rock Valley College has helped
me to better understand that process. Through
discussions with the faculty tutors, I’ve discovered
ways to gain my readers’ attention by using sources
that support and develop one main idea. As a result,
I’ve become more focused and I’ve written better
papers. This experience has given me the confidence
that I need to communicate with others and helped
me to believe in myself as a writer.”
— Lola Parham, RVC student
Service. Support. Success.
Success by the numbers
Tutoring sessions held at RVC Tutoring Center: 7,221Career Services, Advising, & Placement: Over 700 scheduled
appointments last year alone.
1,235GRADUATES OF DEGREE PROGRAMS
8,235ENROLLED STUDENTS: (spring 2012 credit classes)
First-time college students
at RVC this year:OVER 1,300
ROCK VALLEY COLLEGE & FOUNDATION
18 REPORT to the COMMUNITY
Adult Education:Nearly 2,500 students served last year through all RVC Adult Education programs; 280 GED graduates.
Community & Continuing Education Students:
Over 5,700
Dislocated Worker Program: Over 1,300 individuals served.
ROCK VALLEY COLLEGE & FOUNDATION
REPORT to the COMMUNITY 19
Business and Professional Institute: Provided training for 24 different businesses
and 308 participants.
Learning and Opportunity Center (downtown Rockford):
• Over 600 students enrolled;
• Over 500 first generation
college students.
Center for Learning in Retirement: Close to 7,000 seats were filled
for CLR classes.
Stenstrom Center for Career Education:
708 students enrolled in
Career/Technical Programs and
1,594 students enrolled in
general education classes.
Your life does not get better by chance. it gets better by change.
—Jim Rohn
I continue to be humbled by the spirit of donors and their desire to be
catalysts of change. My staff and I have the great privilege to know and understand the selfless motivation that
inspires these individuals to give. They know that their dollars, no matter the amount, literally change the direction
of the lives of our students, their families, and the entire community.
But did you know that when someone shares their resources to change the life of another that they also change
their own life? I have witnessed the true joy of giving in many donors: donors who are filled with satisfaction by
helping others, donors who find peace in changing lives, donors who become rich by sharing their wealth.
These are the stories of change that inspire me to offer giving opportunities to everyone in order to change the
lives of our students and our benefactors.
We at Rock Valley College are fortunate to have the generous support of many individuals and organizations
throughout our region. I would like to take this opportunity to thank each and every one of the contributors
listed here. Please know how very much we appreciate your dedication to changing lives through education.
It is an honorable and important sign of your generous spirit and commitment to helping others and
strengthening our communities.
I would also like to share a very special thank you to the Rock Valley College Foundation Board of Directors.
These volunteer leaders share their valuable time, expertise, and personal contributions to support the mission
of local higher education and job training. The Foundation’s success is due to their overwhelming dedication.
My sincere appreciation to all of our donors this past year and hope that you will consider continuing your
invaluable support.
Sincerely,
Pamela K. Owens, CFRE
Executive Director, Foundation & College Advancement
A letter from the
executive director
ROCK VALLEY COLLEGE & FOUNDATION
22 REPORT to the COMMUNITY
RVC student scholarships“I will be the first college graduate in my family and this scholarship means
a lot to my family. My parents work hard to help with the cost of my studies, but this scholarship is the reason that I can afford
to attend college. I have had to work in a factory to come to school, and this scholarship is a sign of hope that things are
getting better.”
— Osiel H., general studies
“Nursing school
is a rigorous
and challenging
experience, but I know
that the skills I am learning
now will help to fulfill my
dream of helping others in the
future. Thank you so much for
the generous scholarship.
I appreciate your generosity
and kindness more than you
will ever know. “
— Rebecca L., nursing student
“I write this letter
in a state of
gratitude.If it weren’t
for kindhearted people such
as yourself, many students
would not even be able to
attend school. Thanks to your
considerate donation, I was
able to register for several
more classes than I originally
anticipated. You’ve made what
would’ve been a good school
year for me — a great one!”
— Conner H., music student
“Thank you for
your very generous
gift to support my education
with the Jeanette E. Nelson
Scholarship. Because of your
donation, my family and I will not
struggle with school finances, as
I am now able to fully cover my
tuition and fees for the 2011-2012
academic year. I am extremely
grateful for your compassionate
support as I continue my
education at Rock Valley College.”
— Jennifer H., biology student
ROCK VALLEY COLLEGE & FOUNDATION
REPORT to the COMMUNITY 23
Anatomy and Physiology Lab ModelsSince 2001, the RVC Foundation has funded more than $648,000 in grants to
RVC faculty and staff for a variety of equipment and projects that enhance
the learning experience for our students. This past year, the Foundation’s
grant committee awarded $70,000 to meet critical funding needs.
Among those needs was the purchase of new three-dimensional models for
use in the lab portion of the BIO 185 Anatomy and Physiology course taught
at RVC. These new models, with their ability to simulate three-dimensional
relationships of organs in the human body, will help students develop higher-
order thinking skills involving application and analysis. It will also provide a
more rigorous laboratory curriculum that is in line with national standards.
Each year, approximately 450 students take BIO 185, mostly as preparation for
one of RVC’s Nursing or Allied Health programs. Hundreds of other students
who enroll in BIO 100 or BIO 281/282 each year will also benefit from use of
the new anatomical models.
RVC Foundation Grants in action
ROCK VALLEY COLLEGE & FOUNDATION
24 REPORT to the COMMUNITY
Jane Hawkins-Hoff has been a supporter
of Rock Valley College for many years and
has served on the RVC Foundation Board
of Directors since 1989. She and her late
husband, Bob Hawkins, moved to Rockford
in 1969 when Bob started working for RVC
as an intramural director and golf coach. Bob
founded the RVC Booster Club and served as
RVC golf coach when the team went to the
national championship.
After Bob’s passing, Jane established the Bob
Hawkins Memorial Scholarship “to perpetuate
his dedication to shaping good human beings
by acknowledging their endeavors in wellness
and fitness. Bob believed that sports helped
one become a team player, making them
realize that individual actions do have an
impact on others.”
Jane was also one of the first to donate to the
new Karl J. Jacobs Center for Science and Math
by naming the cadaver lab in memory of her
physician father, Dr. C. Kenneth Wilhelmus. Jane
shared that her father “loved what he did and
said he never tired of keeping the long hours
that being a dedicated doctor entails. He
talked often about the need for state-of-the-art
facilities for medical schools so students could
learn to be the best in their field.”
During a visit to his alma mater, the University
of Louisville, Dr. Wilhelmus “saw a very old
picture taken of his father with some other
medical students in an early 1900’s cadaver
lab. He made a comment about how things
have changed but the need to understand the
human body has not. Naming the cadaver lab
in the JCSM seemed a fitting way to honor the
memory of my father.”
Jane’s husband Duey Hoff also has a strong
connection with the college. Duey is a former
RVC student and athlete who served as
men’s head basketball coach from 1983-1985.
Currently, Duey is the president of the RVC
Booster Club.
When asked why she supports RVC, Jane had
the following to say, “I believe that RVC is a gem
in our midst. When you look at all RVC offers
to the entire community, from youngsters to
retired people, you have to agree that we are so
very fortunate to have a college of this caliber
to support our community!”
Jane’s continued dedication and generosity is
an outstanding testimonial to her belief in the
importance of supporting higher education in
our community. Jane is an excellent example
of creating meaningful and lasting tributes to
those you love.
Why I support the Rock Valley
College FoundationA Donor Spotlight – Jane Hawkins-Hoff
“I believe that RVC is
a gem in our midst.”
— Jane Hawkins-Hoff, donor
Rock Valley College Financial Report Operating Funds for the Year Ended June 30, 2012
Revenues
Amount* % of total
Student tuition & fees (net) $11,899,329 14.9
Sales & service fees 1,846,418 5.3
State grants and contracts 7,820,623 9.8
Federal grants and contracts 17,931,359 2.2
State appropriations 6,769,528 8.5
Local property taxes 29,536,322 36.9
Personal property replacement tax 1,412,889 1.8
Investment income 122,965 0.2
Other 2,596,527 3.2
Total Revenues $79,935,960 100.0
Expenses
Amount* % of total
Salaries $30,865,647 39.4
Employee benefits 15,389,678 19.6
Contractual services 4,434,801 5.7
General materials and supplies 3,748,916 4.8
Travel & conference/meeting expense 662,614 0.8
Fixed charges 4,449,254 5.7
Utilities 1,468,442 1.9
Amortization 419,227 0.5
Depreciation 7,209,540 9.2
Other 9,704,437 12.4
Total Expenses by Object $78,352,556 100.0
Rock Valley College Foundation Financial Report for the Year Ended June 30, 2012
Beginning assets July 1, 2011 $8,105,780
Revenues Amount
Amount
Donations $946,342
Special events 96,780
Investments 35,996
Increase (decrease) in net assets $1,079,118
Expenses Amount
Operating $710,722
Fundraising 119,545
Increase (decrease) in net assets (830,267)
Ending net assets - June 30, 2102 $8,354,631
Distribution of awards
Grants $84,000
Scholarships $133,973
Capital $250,000
ROCK VALLEY COLLEGE & FOUNDATION
REPORT to the COMMUNITY 25
Financial reports
*2012 (pre-audit numbers)
ROCK VALLEY COLLEGE & FOUNDATION
26 REPORT to the COMMUNITY
RVC Foundation ContributorsIn Recognition of Cumulative Giving As of June 30, 2012
* Deceased
Cumulative Giving of
$1,000,000 or more
Sjostrom & Sons Foundation
Stenstrom Family
Woodward, Inc.
Cumulative Giving between
$250,000 and $999,999
AMCORE Financial, Inc.
Leola Arnold Trust
Harlan J. and Elsie Ingwalson Trust
Karl L. and Jeanette E. Nelson Trust
Donald H. Wrork, MD Charitable Trust
Cumulative Giving between
$100,000 and $249,999
AMCORE Foundation
Jean A. Bullen Trust
CLARCOR Foundation
Community Foundation of Northern Illinois
D.A.O. Foundation
Eloise K. Eshbaugh*
Hamilton Sundstrand,
a United Technologies Company
LoRayne Logan
Rockford Health System
Sundstrand Corporation
Foundation
SwedishAmerican Foundation
Cumulative Giving between $50,000 and $99,999
Alpine Bank
Nancy E. Anderson Estate
Atwood Foundation
Mary Caskey
Helm Group
Ross Edgar Hunt
Marjorie Brookman Marlowe
John and Roberta Mink
OSF Saint Anthony
Medical Center
Sjostrom & Sons, Inc.
Suntec Industries, Inc.
SwedishAmerican
Health System
Winnebago County
Dental Society
Cumulative Giving between $25,000 and $49,999
American Century
Anonymous (2)
Bank One-Rockford N.A.
Ralph Bartels*
Jack and Janna Becherer
Belvidere National Bank and Trust Co.
Bergstrom, Inc. Charitable Foundation
Ina Cholke & Olga Dean Bullard Charitable Trust
Melba and Thomas L.* Clinton, Sr.
Haldex Hydraulics Corporation
Dain Rauscher Incorporated
Danka
Elco Textron Inc.
Forest City Gear
Funderburg Foundation
Gannett Foundation
Gloyd Family Foundation
Goodwill Northern Illinois
Shirley S. Holzwarth
Hughes Business Telephones, Inc.
Illinois Community College System Foundation
Ingersoll Milling Machine Company
Allen W. Johnson
Johnson Controls, Inc.
Janet Kjellstrom
Jane Smith Marlowe*
Clint Maslen*
Richard Nordlof
Rockford Ambulatory Surgery Center
Rockford Powertrain, Inc.
Rockford Products Corp. Foundation
Michelle and Dan Rojo
RVC Student Government
Saavedra Gehlhausen Architects
Savant Capital Management, Inc.
Students in Free Enterprise
Sundstrand Corporation
Edward and Kathryn Way Trust
YABA of N. IL Bowling Foundation
Cumulative Giving between $10,000 and $24,999
Anderson Industries, Inc.
Anonymous
Aqua-Aerobic Systems, Inc.
Arc Design Resources, Inc.
ASHRAE Chapter #119
Kathie Ayres and Ted Ross
Bank One Foundation
William N. Baskin, MD and Leah Gonigam Baskin
Suzanne and Don Berger
Blackhawk State Bank
Charles and Joan Bradley
James Stanford Brown*
Mrs. Leonard J. Cartier
Chrysler Corporation
Citizen’s Scholarship Foundation of America
City Fire Fighters Local 413
RVC remembers founder and friendThe Rock Valley College community would
like to formally pay tribute to the memory
of Peter Kostantacos, who served as General
Counsel to the Rock Valley College Board of
Trustees for 50 years, providing guidance and
leadership to us all. Peter was truly a founding
father of Rock Valley College and was
instrumental in the referendum to create a
community college in Rockford. He was a role
model through his dedication to community
college education and consistently shared
his knowledge, wisdom, and love for our
community.
Peter Kostantacos was respected, loved,
and cherished by many, and will be missed
by us all.
In appreciation of our generous donors
With gratitude and recognition of the loyal donors whose generous gifts literally change lives through higher education.
ROCK VALLEY COLLEGE & FOUNDATION
REPORT to the COMMUNITY 27
James and Carol Cox
Michael and Patricia Davis
Demonica Kemper Architects
Dynacorp, Inc.
Freeport Health Network
G. Pollnow Farm Trust No. 1
Richard J. Galla and Family
Bill and Sue Gorski
Grainger Industrial Supply
Greenlee Textron Inc.
Steve and Tina Gunderson
Jane Hawkins-Hoff
Brian and Kari Helm
Jennifer Huston
David D. Kalber Trust
Illinois Water Treatment, Inc.
William and Lois* Kramer
Leonard and Virginia LaPasso
Mattison Foundation, Inc.
McGladrey LLP
Richard and Nancy McIntosh
George* and Marion Meadows
Karen and John Messley
NIBCA
William D. O’Connell
Olson Aluminum Castings
Sam and Deb Overton
Pepsi-Cola Bottling Co. of Rockford
Pillsbury-Green Giant
Poplar Grove State Bank
John T. Quirk, Col. USAF RET.
Annette J. Rehbein
RJ Galla Co., Inc.
Robbins Schwartz Nicholas Lifton & Taylor, Ltd.
Rockford Anesthesiologists Associated
Rockford Orthopedic Associates, Ltd.
Rockford Products LLC
Rockford Surgical Service, S.C.
Sikich LLP
Nancy and Jim Sylvester
W A Whitney Corp
Jim and Shirley Waddell
Walmart Foundation
Frank and Jennifer Wehrstein
William Charles, Ltd.
WilliamsMcCarthy LLP
John T. Wolf Charitable Trust II
workplace staffing
In Recognition of Annual Giving Received between July 1, 2011 and June 30, 2012
* Deceased
Annual Giving of $100,000 or more
Leola Arnold Trust
Hamilton Sundstrand, a United Technologies Company
Annual Giving between $25,000 and $99,999
Anonymous
Atwood Foundation
LoRayne Logan
Richard Nordlof
Rockford Health System
Annual Giving between $10,000 and $24,999
Anonymous
Kathie Ayres and Ted Ross
Richard J. Galla and Family
Helm Group
Karen and John Messley
William D. O’Connell
Annette J. Rehbein
Savant Capital Management, Inc.
Walmart Foundation
Donald H. Wrork, MD Charitable Trust
Annual Giving between $5,000 and $9,999
ASHRAE Chapter #119
Ina Cholke & Olga Dean Bullard Charitable Trust
Carl and Barb Dargene
Demonica Kemper Architects
Olson Aluminum Castings
OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center
Rockford Ambulatory Surgery Center
RVC Student Government Association
Saavedra Gehlhausen Architects
Schwab Charitable Fund
Stenstrom Family
SwedishAmerican Health System
Bob and Madeline Walberg
John T. Wolf Charitable Trust II
Annual Giving between $2,500 and $4,999
Alpine Bank
AMCORE Foundation
Jack and Janna Becherer
Bergstrom, Inc. Charitable Foundation
Forest City Gear
Guy and Debra Gehlhausen
Steve and Tina Gunderson
Allen W. Johnson
Dave Mark
John and Roberta Mink
Sam and Deb Overton
Ray and Jo Marie Paul
John T. Quirk, Col. USAF RET.
RJ Galla Co., Inc.
Robbins Schwartz Nicholas Lifton & Taylor, Ltd.
Steiner Kerman Education Foundation
Students In Free Enterprise
Annual Giving between $1,000 and $2,499
Advanced Machine & Engineering
Anonymous
Arc Design Resources, Inc.
William N. Baskin, MD and Leah Gonigam Baskin
Belvidere Area Chamber of Commerce
Suzanne and Don Berger
James Bonavia
Brent and Sharon Brodeski
City Fire Fighters Local 413
Michael and Patricia Davis
Dominick Demonica
Robert Giesecke
Ronald V. Harris
Brian and Kari Helm
Helm Group
Georgann A. Johnson
Brian L. Kobischka
Douglas E. Lee
Jacki Minnihan
Oliver Close, LLC
Pam and Terry Owens
Katie and Ken Peterson
PMA Financial Network, Inc.
Robert J. and Mary Porod *
Alan and Cynthia Rehbein
Ardine Rice-Tennial
Rock River Valley Baseball, LLC
Rockford Bank & Trust
Daniel and Diana Saavedra
George and Frances Schwenkner Charitable Trust
Sikich LLP
Sjostrom & Sons Foundation
Nancy and Jim Sylvester
Jim and Shirley Waddell
Jim & Shirley Waddell
Charitable Fund
Frank and Jennifer Wehrstein
Susan and John Whitcher
WilliamsMcCarthy LLP
Annual Giving between $750 and $999
Alpha Controls & Services, LLC
Anonymous
Drs. Dale and Elaine Drake
Bill and Sue Gorski
Karl and Carol Jacobs
Diane and Ed Kuehl
Lana Paris and Don Zwiefelhofer
Purple Creek
Rockford Lions Club Charity Foundation, Inc.
Annual Giving between $500 and $749
David H. and Madeleine V. Arnold
Brent and Susie Bernardi
Casler Foundation
Community Foundation of Northern Illinois
Robert and Carolyn Conboy
Xuan Dinh
The Power Connection (NECA - IBEW)
Linda Goldstein
Hanson Professional Services Inc.
Jane Hawkins-Hoff
Terry and Janet Joles
James and Pamela Keeling/Green Passthrough Fund of the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois
Lenny Hall
Kathy McCarty
K. Sue Null
Barclay and Debra Olson
Pfizer Foundation Matching Gifts Program
Martin and Christy Pocs
Rockford East Cherry Valley Rotary Club
Michelle and Gary Rothmeyer
David and Ann Schertz
Sheet Metal Workers Local No. 219
Jack and Barbara Simon
Mary and Greg Tuite
workplace staffing
Susan M. Wormley
Annual Giving between $250 and $499
Anonymous
Kay and Phillip Blair
Paul Callighan
Lynne and Gary Carlson
Stephen and Cindy Casper
Sharon and Dan Cooper
Brian and Robin DeBenedetto
David and Amy Diaz
Exelon Matching Gifts for Education
Fidelity Charitable Gift Fund
Greg and Laurel Franchini
Norm and Pat Hagman
Hagney Architects
Gary and Tina Kaatz
Kathleen Kelly and Arnold Rosen
Tom and Fayne Kniep
Chet Kolodziej
Peter* and Pauline Kostantacos
Charles and Lois Lindstrom
Roger and Nancy Lundstrom
Donald and Freda Manzullo
Wes Morgan
Pat and Lisa Morrow
Diane and Grant Nyhammer
Robert and Lucy Pirages
Linda Restel
Rockford Register Star
ROCK VALLEY COLLEGE & FOUNDATION
28 REPORT to the COMMUNITY
Tim and Carrie Rollins
Bill and Terri Roop
David and Patty Ross
Michelle K. Scandroli
Algimantas Staskauskas
Tricia and Larry Sweeney
Robert and Norma Trojan
Michael P. Webb
Mary and Richard Wolf
Annual Giving between $100 and $249
Jon Aldrich
Anonymous (2)
H. Jackson and Tanya Anstedt
Jeff and Chris Beck
Bob and Danae Betts
Eric Blauert
Phyllis Lane Bonavia
Thomas Brain
Karen Brown
Lynell Cannell
Tom Carroll
Paula and Guy Carynski
Nancy and Mike Chamberlain
M. Ed Clucas
James and Connie Coffey
Jim and Cynthia Conley
Brenda and Dennis Corcoran
Charles and Anna Marie Corley
Dave Costello
Arthur Del Muro
Ann T. Dempsey
Michael Dom
Jason Dowling
Kaye and Todd Eckstaine
Mary Ann Eibler
Rex Entsminger
Janyce Fadden
Kyle Fell
Steve and Claudia Fleeman
Steven Fransen
Friends of the RVC Library
Lori Frith
Robert and Cathy Funderburg
Tom and Darlene Furst
David Galla
Glenn H. Giles
Rick Gilmore
Cynthia E. Grantz
Greg Tuite & Associates, Attorneys at Law
Carol and Craig Hanson
Julie and Daniel Heath
Donald Holt
Shirley S. Holzwarth
Donald Ivacic
Kurt and Susan Jensen
Bonnie and Bill Johnson
Beverly Jones
Gary and Sally Jouris
Dave Keaggy
Ann and John Kerwitz
Robert J. King
Marilyn Lindeman
Jeff Linkenheld
Pete and Pam Lonsway
Lois and Tom Lundgren
Lori and Brian Lyons
Karol and Michael Manley
Mike and Crystal Mastroianni
Robert and Jodi McCarthy
Richard McMahon
Mary Lou Miller
Stephen K. Miller
Dave Naze
Ray and Cheryl Olson
Douglas and Kathryn Pherigo
Marsha E. Polacek
Fred Pooley
Teddy R. Prosise
Fred and Judy Raffety
Gary S. Reese
Darlene K. Riddle
Rockford Charter Coach LLC
Phillip and Linda Roehrig
April and Edward Rottman
Angela Schmidt
Joe and Kathleen Schoening
Mary Jo Schoening
Ron Schulz
Barbara L. Smith
Jackie Spelman
Bob and Kate Stroup
Matthew Swan
Terracon Consultants, Inc.
Thienemann Family Donor Advised Fund of the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois
Candace Thompson
Tom Viel
Janet Vlk
Brian and Tricia Wagner
Greg and Hilde Wear
Kevin and Diane Wheeler
Don and Dee Williams
Ray and Nola Wood
Larry and Patricia Zachary
Sue Zillmer
Annual Giving under $100
Marsha and Larry Ackerman
Jessica and Luke Adkins
Trevor P. Albrecht
Alpha Kappa Alpha/Pi Gamma Omega Chapter
Joe Altenhoff
David L. Anderzon
Anonymous (5)
Mary Ann Beckus Arenz
Matt Armstrong
Lorrie A. Arnold
Dave Barich
Lorene Benzel
Leota Benzel Schilling
Julie and Christopher Black
Dick and Nancy Blackburn
Judy Wickens Block
Katie and Bill Boughton
Robert J. Boyd
Debbie Bremner
David Brown
Nathan Bryant
Rozelle and James Carroll
Matt and Kristina Cascio
Joseph P. Coniglio
William and Mary Conkling
John R. Conley
Carole Cotter
Debra Delia
John and Debra Dixon
Andy and Beri Dolan
Tim and Karla Dorgan
Jerry Doyle
Dannette Eibl
Gene and Carol Elliott
Elsie R. Estabrook
Joe and Ellie Etminan
Jay and Sue Forsyth
Nancye C. Franklin
Harold and Diane Goellner
GoodSearch
Michelle and Jason Gorham
Teresa Modica Grow
LeeAnn Gustafson
Mr. and Mrs. Eugene O. Gustafson
Jan and Erich Hagenlocher
David and Anne Hagney
Charles and Patricia Harker
Terry Hedman
Jane M. Heimer
Daniel and Cathy Herdeman
Deena and Rodger Hergert
Brent Horsley
Joseph and Sally Huggins
Robert Jakeway
Scott and Monica James
Janet and Wayne Jones
Janet S. Keating
John Kehoe
Mildred I. Klemp
Raymond Krouse
Jon and Jane Lang
Jean J. Larsen
Keith and Michelle Larson
Keith D. Lindstrand
Michele Lippert
Catherine Locallo
Ronald L. Lund
Susan M. Lundgren
Jane Lyons
Michael and Naomi Madden
Chris and Cecilia Mann
Faye and Fred Marcus
John and Susan Martocci
Amy Massoth
George* and Marion Meadows
Milo Miller
Rozelle Carroll
Kay Mondul
Bill and Shelly Moses
Don and Doris Mosser
Alice Netto
Alicia Neubauer
John and Kate O’Connor
Jim and Michele Olejarski
Mr. and Mrs. Robert J. Oliver
Carol Ann Ostrom
Pamela J. Pasky
Ellen Poppen
Roxanne and Paul Reith
Robert and Tawnya Reitsch
Peter and Margie Ricker
Steve Roggensack
Sam and Mazie Ruzic
Joan Sage
Brad Salley
Randy and Debi Schaefer
Gayle and Nick Scheuer
John and Shirley Schou
Denise Schrader
Sue Schrieber
Norman Shirk
Janna Shwaiko
Dave Sikorski
Eugene and Mary Skerkoske
Jeanne K. Smith
Nancy Smith
William V. Spack
Andy Sproule
Armer and Rose Mae Swanson
Stephen Thompson
Beverly Thompson
Marilyn Jenkins Tucker
Jamin Unger
Steve and Joy Vee
Ronald A. Wait
Valisa Walker
Margaret and Gary Wilkerson
Linda V. Witek
Steve Wong
Mort Zachter
Marc and Karen Zussman
ROCK VALLEY COLLEGE & FOUNDATION
REPORT to the COMMUNITY 29
Giving in Tribute
in honor of
Estelle M. Black
Alpha Kappa Alpha/Pi Gamma Omega Chapter
Thomas Clark, RVC Faculty
Olson Aluminum Castings
Guy D. Gehlhausen
Debra Gehlhausen
Peter C. Kostantacos*
Anonymous
Crystal Lopez
Anonymous
in memory of
Evelyn Abrahamson
Jim and Shirley Waddell
Richard Bernardi
Kathryn S. Null
Mary Boyd
David H. and Madeleine V. Arnold
Robert J. Boyd
Charles and Patricia Harker
David Caskey
Mr. and Mrs. Robert J. Oliver
Vern Cassens
Casler Foundation
Elizabeth “Liz” Harris
Ronald V. Harris
Bob Hawkins
Jane Hawkins-Hoff
Larry Heimer
Jane M. Heimer
Heidi Hutchison, RVC volleyball coach
Jeanne K. Smith
Peter C. Kostantacos, RVC attorney and friend
Jack and Janna Becherer
Greg Tuite & Associates, Attorneys at Law
John and Ann Kerwitz
Pam and Terry Owens
David Madden
Michael and Naomi Madden
Lynn E. Manning and Aaron D. Manning
Dr. and Mrs. Joseph Schoening
Mary Jo Schoening
Catherine Manzullo
Donald and Freda Manzullo
Hal Maysent
Georgann A. Johnson
Mort Zachter
District Fire Chief Kevin R. McIntyre
International Association of Fire Fighters Local 413
Curt E. Ostrom
Carol A. Ostrom
Pauline Pirages
Robert and Lucy Pirages
James Rehbein, Professor of Earth Science
Robert and Carolyn Conboy
Donald Ivacic
Rozelle Carroll
Alan and Cynthia Rehbein
Annette J. Rehbein
Detective Kevin Darrell Rice, Sr.
Marsha and Larry Ackerman
Anonymous
Trevor P. Albrecht
Kay and Phillip Blair
Tim and Karla Dorgan
Jay and Sue Forsyth
Jon and Jane Lang
Milo Miller
Ardine Rice-Tennial
Rock River Valley Baseball, LLC
Brad Salley
Gerald J. Smith, RVC Alumni
Barbara L. Smith
Ann Miller Waddell
Jim and Shirley Waddell
Jody Wait
Ronald A. Wait
C. Edward Ware
H. Jackson and Tanya Anstedt
Mildred I. Klemp
Jean J. Larsen
Jim and Michele Olejarski
Armer and Rose Mae Swanson
RVC Heritage Society
In Recognition of Planned Giving
Leola Arnold*
David H. and Madeleine V. Arnold
Jack J. and Janna K. Becherer
James H. Breuhaus
Jean A. Bullen*
Mrs. Leonard J. Cartier
Eloise K. Eshbaugh*
Ronald V. Harris
Jane Hawkins-Hoff
Shirley S. Holzwarth
Harlan J. and Elsie Ingwalson*
David D. Kalber*
Brian L. Kobischka
Peter C. Kostantacos*
Douglas E. Lee
Richard T. and Grace H. Leighton
Gene and Kathryn Lindell*
LoRayne Logan
Roger E. and Nancy A. Lundstrom
Fred E. Machesney*
John and Roberta Mink
Karl L. and Jeanette E. Nelson*
Carol Ann Ostrom
Lydia Luhman Pederson*
Bill and Terri Roop
William R. Samuelson
George and Frances Schwenkner*
George E. Seidler*
Tricia Cratty Sweeney
Jim and Nancy Sylvester
Edward and Kathryn Way*
Jack and Peggy Wolf
Virginia Wrork*
Fred and Wendy Young
* Deceased
List AccuracyWe are thankful to our generous donors and have taken steps
to ensure the accuracy of this report. We apologize for any
errors that may have occurred and ask that you notify us of any
corrections by calling (815) 921-4500.
ROCK VALLEY COLLEGE & FOUNDATION
30 REPORT to the COMMUNITY
Brent Bernardi – Alpha Controls & Services, Inc.
Brent Brodeski* – Savant Capital Management, LLC
Stephen T. Casper** – Woodward, Inc.
Michael W. Davis – Community Leader
Brian DeBenedetto – Rockford Bank & Trust
Ann T. Dempsey – Oliver Close, LLC
Dale A. Drake – Drs. Drake, Ltd.
Bill Gorski, MD – SwedishAmerican Health System
Steven A. Gunderson, DO – Rockford Ambulatory Surgery Center
Jane Hawkins-Hoff – Community Leader
Brian Helm – Helm Group
Robert J. King – Booker T. Washington Center
Douglas E. Lee – Associated Banc-Corporation
LoRayne Logan – workplace staffing
Roger E. Lundstrom – Community Leader
Karen E. Messley – RVC Faculty Emeritus
Stephen K. Miller – UTC Aerospace Systems
John W. Mink – Community Leader
Patrick W. Morrow – Alpine Bank
Tad Olson – Olson Aluminum Castings
Timothy J. Rollins – WilliamsMcCarthy LLP
Michelle Scandroli – Community Leader
Robert W. Stenstrom – Stenstrom Companies, Ltd.
James S. Waddell – Community Leader
Frank Wehrstein** – Dickerson & Nieman REALTORS©
Ex Officio
Dr. Jack Becherer, President/CEO, Rock Valley College
Sam E. Overton, Jr., Vice President Administrative Services
Pamela K. Owens, Executive Director, Foundation and College Advancement
* Term began 7/1/12
** Term ended 6/30/12
Rock Valley College Board of TrusteesMichael P. Dunn, Jr., Chairperson
Michael D. Olson, Vice Chairperson
Mary Tuite, Secretary
Ted Biondo
Katherine M. Kelley
Dr. Stephanie Raach
Randall J. Schaefer
Naomi Fisher**, Student Trustee
Daniel Slabaugh*, Student Trustee
* Term began 5/22/12
** Term ended 5/22/12
RVC Foundation Board of Directors
Our VisionAs our community’s college, we make a difference through teaching, learning, and leading.
Maculson M., physical education student
3301 N. Mulford Road • Rockford, Illinois 61114(815) 921-4500 • www.rockvalleycollege.edu
ROCK VALLEY COLLEGE & FOUNDATION